nav2

Dec. 16, 2009: Community support is heartwarming

To The Editor:
On a recent afternoon in front of the Margaretville Freshtown Market, I had the pleasure of serving as a Salvation Army volunteer bell ringer. I had assumed that with the current state of our government, the economy, and what we see daily in the media, there would be limited giving. However, the response was overwhelming. The elderly, young parents with children, family shoppers, workers and vacationers stopped at the red kettle to contribute, all with smiles and words of support and good wishes.
A heartwarming scene that played out several times was that of adults shepherding their children, ranging from toddlers to adolescents, in the gift of giving. The message was obvious, the people that live and shop in our community are holding to the values that are the bedrock of our nation. And they are bringing up the next generation to appreciate those same values.
A close friend ran a “soup kitchen” in Albany for many years as a volunteer for the Salvation Army. Her stories of her experiences throughout those years are testimony to the thrifty and sensible ways that the Salvation Army continues in its mission to provide a helping hand.
The day was filled with holiday spirit and great satisfaction that the will to give generously for the well-being of others is strong.
Thank you for your support. It will be used wisely.